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- 2017 Lexus ES
- Performance
Note: This performance review was created when the 2017 Lexus ES was new.
Performance: | 8.0 |
Shoppers looking for a tranquil ride, effortless steering, and a well-built powertrain will find what they're looking for in the 2017 Lexus ES. Without a doubt, this is no sport sedan, but for many buyers that won’t matter. It favors a smooth ride above all else. Fuel economy is impressive compared to similar competitors.
The 2017 ES comes with a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. According to the EPA, it delivers 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. That's great compared to other V6-powered luxury midsize cars. However, some hybrid rivals in the class are more efficient. Lexus also offers an ES Hybrid, which we review separately.
Overall, the ES provides a satisfying driver experience. The V6 engine is refined, providing both the power and the hushed snarl that instills confidence in this capable engine. There are three driving modes: Eco, Normal, or Sport. Eco mode provides better fuel economy but reduces throttle response. In Sport mode, transmission shifts are more aggressive, resulting in better power delivery.
While many entrants in our ranking of luxury midsize cars skew sportier and sportier year after year, the Lexus ES finds its niche as a comfortable cruiser. Ride quality is top notch, and sound isolation is excellent. Recent improvements to the suspension result in an even better ride over previous model years.
Lexus also enhanced steering ability and stiffened the ES' frame. This helps it tackle corners better on twisting roads, but remember, the front-wheel-drive ES is by no means sporty. Steering requires very little effort, which comes in handy when parking. Steering is moderately predictable, but there's almost no road feedback.
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